Brave 12-Year-Old Raises Funds for Lifesaving Equipment at Site of Father’s Tragic Drowning in Peterborough

Brave 12-Year-Old Raises Funds for Lifesaving Equipment at Site of Father’s Tragic Drowning in Peterborough.

One of two emergency Lifebuoys to be installed at the river Nene

Peterborough, UK – 22 May 2025 — Twelve-year-old Ellie Mai McNutt has successfully raised over £1,200 to install lifesaving equipment at the River Nene in Peterborough, where her father, Damian McNutt, tragically drowned last year.

Damian McNutt, known affectionately as “Damo,” lost his life on 24 May 2024 after getting into difficulty in the river. Despite being a strong swimmer, the 31-year-old was unable to make it to safety. His body was recovered the following day, just metres from where he had entered the water.

Moved by the lack of emergency equipment at the site, Ellie Mai—who now lives in Leicester with her aunt, Farrah McNutt—launched a fundraising campaign to prevent future tragedies. Her initiative aimed to purchase two lifebuoys and a bleed control kit to be installed near the site, close to the Asda bridge on the River Nene.

Beloved farther of three Damian McNutt - who tragically drowned in Peterborough's river Nene

“It was all her idea,” said Maisie Peters, Damian’s cousin. “She asked, ‘Why isn’t there a lifebuoy here?’ She wanted to make sure no one else has to go through what we did.”

Ellie Mai’s fundraising effort was supported by the local community, friends, family, and Catch a Thief UK Social Enterprise. The campaign also partnered with the Daniel Baird Foundation, which supplied the bleed control kit, designed in memory of Daniel Baird, who was fatally stabbed in 2017.

Through a combination of a JustGiving page, a prize draw, handmade jewellery sales, and sweet bags, Ellie Mai reached her target—raising £110 through a raffle and £22 from sweet sales alone.

Funds raised for Peterborough s Emergency Bleed Control Kit

“We are incredibly proud of her,” said her aunt Chanelle. “Her younger siblings, Remi and Kali, can grow up knowing their sister did something truly special.”

The installation of the equipment is scheduled for 24 May 2025, marking the one-year anniversary of Damian’s passing. The two lifebuoys will be placed on either side of the bridge to ensure maximum accessibility in an emergency.

However, the family voiced frustration over the lack of response from local authorities. Despite reaching out to Peterborough City Council, current MP Paul Bristow, and former MP Andrew Pakes, the family received no support or acknowledgment.

Damian McNutt and his three children Ellie-Mai Remi and Kali

“It’s unacceptable that nothing has been done before now,” said Farrah McNutt, who is now guardian to Damian’s three children. “Other people have drowned at this spot over the years. Why has it been left to a 12-year-old and the community to take action?”

The inquest into Damian McNutt’s death remains ongoing.

The McNutt family would like to thank everyone who contributed to Ellie Mai’s campaign and helped bring lifesaving equipment to the River Nene. Their efforts stand as a powerful testament to community spirit—and a daughter’s love for her father.

Catch a Thief UK - Community Safety